Natixis confirms interest in Pioneer

Leading French group Natixis has confirmed its interest in purchasing Pioneer Investments, the asset management arm of Italian banking group Unicredit, according to French press reports.

Rumours regarding the firm’s interest, as well as two other French groups BNP Paribas and Amundi, were reported by Citywire on Thursday and the latest development came from Natixis’ managing director Laurent Mignon during an investor conference call relating to the firm’s quarterly results

‘When you look at Pioneer’s presence, having exposure in Italy, Germany and in Eastern Europe, it is clear it’s a player which can answer Natixis Asset Management’s strategic objectives,' said Mignon.

‘It is a deal which, if we decided to go through with it, would only make sense if we established a lasting relationship with Unicredit in the distribution sector.’